November 2023Vol. 24, No. 9Caring for a Child Affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

A recent brief from the Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network provides kin caregivers with information about how consuming alcohol during pregnancy can adversely affect children’s development. It offers tips for raising children who were exposed to alcohol before birth and now have fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).

The brief discusses FASD—a disorder that comprises a spectrum of conditions, the effects of which can include mental, physical, and learning disabilities; behavioral challenges; and more—and its signs and symptoms. It also notes that, while FASD can manifest in a variety of ways and severity, there are many things grandparents and other caregivers can do to support the child in their care. With an emphasis on early intervention, the brief lists strategies grandparents and other caregivers can use to support the child.

Caring for a Child Affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is an adaptation of a Zero to Three resource and is available on the Grandfamilies and Kinship Support Network website.